Pakistan's Interim Coach Discusses Squad Changes Ahead of Third Test

Pakistan's cricket team is preparing for the third Test against England at Edgbaston, aiming to avoid a clean sweep after losing the first two matches. Interim head coach Mike Hesson noted that the team has undergone significant changes, dropping seven players and calling up seven new ones.

Hesson, who was initially in Japan for the Asian Games, took over the Test team temporarily after the departure of head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed. He explained that the changes were necessary to create a balanced squad for the upcoming match, particularly in response to the conditions at Edgbaston.

Among the players released were senior batters Imam-ul-Haq and Salman Ali Agha, along with wicketkeeper Muhammad Rizwan. New additions include experienced batters Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal, as well as five uncapped players. Hesson emphasized the importance of variety in the team's attack and addressed rumors regarding player attendance at a royal meeting, clarifying that the decisions were made prior to his arrival.